Solved by a verified expert:While cleansing society of particular populations is clearly a sinister motivation and no longer accepted public policy, forced sterilizations, continue in a handful of controversial cases, inviting discussion as to whether more benevolent rationales support such a practice. Your reading introduces you to the case of Ashley X, a severely mentally and physically disabled 14-year old girl, lovingly referred to as Pillow Angel by her parents. The case inspired heated debate five-years ago, when Ashley’s parents posted a blog detailing their efforts to have Ashley sterilized and her growth chemically attenuated in an effort to make caring for her easier in years to come. While it is generally recognized that Ashley’s parents and her doctor all believed they were acting in Ashley’s best interests, the ethical implications continue to raise concern, as other similar cases have since emerged. Fueling the debate are fears that the practice represents a form of eugenics, which could lead to technological advancements designed to impair the reproductive capabilities of vulnerable populations.You are a distinguished member of your hospital’s ethics Committee. The Hospital Administrator,Dr. Unsure has requested that you attend the upcoming Board meeting and share with Board your thoughts on the ethical permissibility (or impermissibility) of the Ashley case. Apparently, the Board is concerned that the demands of caring for such children, coupled with the continued cuts in public funding may encourage other parents to request similar procedures for their severely disabled children. The Board is wondering if such a practice could be ethically defended, or if a moratorium on such a drastic procedure should be instituted. Discuss withDr. Unsure your view on the ethical implications and justifications for or against the “Ashley” treatment. Remember to include the ethical theories and principles that support your position.
Recent Comments